Demeter Biodynamic Production Standards

8/9/2019 Demeter Biodynamic Production Standards

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PRODUCTIONPRODUCTIONPRODUCTIONPRODUCTIONSTANDARDSSTANDARDSSTANDARDSSTANDARDS

FOR THE USE OF DEMETFOR THE USE OF DEMETFOR THE USE OF DEMETFOR THE USE OF DEMETER,ER,ER,ER,

BIODYNAMICBIODYNAMICBIODYNAMICBIODYNAMIC ® ®® ®

AND RELATED AND RELATED AND RELATED AND RELATED

TRADEMARKS TRADEMARKS TRADEMARKS TRADEMARKS

as of June 2009

to be implemented by each member country by the 1st

July 2010

Demeter International e.V.



Demeter International Production Standards 01.07.09

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Tab l e o f C ont en t s

1. Principles ................................................................................................. 5-6

2. The Farm Organism – Farm Individuality ................................................................................6

3 Arable and Plant production .............................................................7

3.1 Seeds and propagation material................................................7

3.1.1. Seeds ...............................................................................7

3.1.2. Propagation material ........................................................7

3.1.2.1 Propagation material for vegetables .....................7

3.1.2.2 Propagation material for tree crops andperennial crops…………………………………...................8

3.2 Manures .........................................................................................8

3.2.1. Amount of manure ...........................................................8

3.2.2. Brought in manure and soils ........................................ 8-9

3.3 Plant care and protection ...........................................................9

3.3.1. Protection in storage .......................................................9

3.4 Market gardens and field vegetables, hops andother perennial crops ............................................................ 9-10

3.4.1. Seed, propagation material and seedlings ....................10

3.4.2. Manure, soils and potting mixes................................10-11

3.4.3. Plant care and protection ..............................................11

3.4.4. Weed control ................................................................11

3.4.5. Production under glass and plastics ..............................11

3.4.6. Harvest and preparation for sale ...................................11

3.4.7. Exceptions for market gardens with

vegetables and ornamental plants ............................11-12

3.5. Orcharding and other perennial crops ...................................12

3.5.1. Plant material ................................................................12

3.5.2. Manures and soil husbandry .........................................12

3.5.3. Plant care and protection ..............................................12

3.5.4. Support stakes...............................................................13

3.6. Mushrooms ..................................................................................13

3.7. Sprouts and shoots ....................................................................13

3.8. New crops and production techniques ..................................13

3.9. Clearing of virgin forest .............................................................13




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4. Biodynamic Preparations .............................................................13-14

5. Animal Husbandry............................................................................14-15

5.1. Requirement to have livestock .................................................15

5.2. Stocking rate ................................................................................15

5.3 Co-operation between farms ....................................................15

5.4. Management ...............................................................................16

5.4.1. Cattle management ......................................................17

5.4.2. Management of sheep, goats and horses .....................17

5.4.3. Management of pigs .................................................17-18

5.4.4. Management of poultry ..................................................18

5.5. Feeding ........................................................................................19

5.5.1. Brought in feed and conversion feed .......................19-20

5.5.2. Feeding of dairy cows, sheep, goats andhorses.......................................................................20-21

5.5.3. Feeding of beef cattle ...................................................21

5.5.4. Feeding of replacement calves, calves forfattening, lambs and kids ...............................................21

5.5.5. Nomadic sheep herds ...................................................21

5.5.6. Guest animals................................................................22

5.5.7. Community pasture........................................................225.5.8. Feeding of pigs .............................................................22

5.5.9. Feeding of poultry .........................................................22

5.6. Breeding and identification........................................................23

5.6.1. Breeding .......................................................................23

5.6.2. Identification of stock and record keeping .....................23

5.7. Origin of animals, brought in stock, andmarketing ................................................................................23-24

5.7.1. Milk, dairy cows and calves ...........................................24

5.7.2. Beef cattle for fattening .................................................245.7.3. Sheep and goats ...........................................................25

5.7.4. Pigs ..........................................................................25-26

5.7.5. Poultry ...........................................................................26

5.7.6. Bee products..................................................................26

5.8. Medical treatment of animals (Veterinarytreatment of animals) ................................................................27

5.9. Transport and slaughter of stock ............................................27

5.10. Cleaning and disinfecting.................................................. 27




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6. Exclusion of Genetically modified organisms andnanotechnolgy.........................................................................................28

7. Conversion, Certification, Contract .............................................28

7.1. Conversion and the production manager .............................28

7.2. Conversion of the enterprise ...............................................28-29

7.3. Demeter certification and use of the trademark ...................29

7.3.1. Certification in conversion.........................................29-30

7.3.2. Contract .........................................................................30

Appendix 1 Calculation of the stocking rate ...........................................31

Appendix 2 Allowable brought in feeds....................................................32

Appendix 3 Allowable feed extenders and additives...........................33

Appendix 4 Allowable fertilisers ..................................................................34

Appendix 5 Allowable materials and methods for plantcare and protection .................................................................35

Appendix 6 Example of progress through the conversionphase ............................................................................................36

Appendix 7 Approval of exemptions..........................................................37

Appendix 8 Minimum age at slaughter for poultry…. .........................38

Appendix 9 Products authorised for cleaning anddisinfecting of livestock, buildings andinstallations (e.g. equipment and utensils).. ..................38

Appendix 10 Biodynamic Preparations ............................................ 39-40

Postscript .......................................................................................................41




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1. Principles

In life processes many diverse forces, which do not originate solely from material interactions, work together. All agricultural measures rely on activating processes which enhance and enliven these natural connections.

The Biodynamic method has largely to do with the forming of living interactions and cannot be defined in the way the production methods for an inanimate article can be. Work done by the human hand in caring for the fertility of the soil, the plants, the seeds and propagating material, and the animals, in harmony with local conditions, can develop the farm or garden into a living organism. The huge diversity of the natural world means that agricultural practices that are suitable in one place may be completely inappropriate in another. The inclinations and capabilities of the farmer need to be taken into account for the various farm organisational possibilities which meet these standards. The correct timing of those measures which affect living processes plays an important role. To this belongs in particular also the conscientious and regular use of the Biodynamic preparations, and the consideration of cosmic rhythms in plant production and animal husbandry .

The production standards for Demeter certification express an internal agreement covering the outwardly active Biodynamic agriculture. They set the framework for the guidelines which are formulated by the respective organisations for Biodynamic agriculture in the different countries (hereafter called the “respective organisation”). Products that are marketed with the Demeter trademark must have been produced within these standards. The legal requirements of these standards are equally applicable to all producing enterprises.

Biodynamic work requires that one is strongly connected with the essential nature of the Biodynamic method, its principles and aims. To this end it is necessary to live into the natural processes using observation, thinking and perception. An ever-deepening understanding of the connections in nature,based on knowledge, can be gained by constant striving. Cooperative work in the various advisory associations, public events, magazines and books are all important sources of aid and support.

The special body of knowledge which is the basis for Biodynamic agriculture, insofar as it extends beyond practical and scientific experience, is derived from Rudolf Steiner’s “Agricultural Course” of 1924 , and the spiritual context of anthroposophy within which this course was held.

The aim is always to practise agriculture in such a manner that structuring the farm as an integrated unit results in productivity and health, and that those inputs needed for production are generated out of the farm itself. If one however wants to use these standards in such a way as is often the case with laws, that the only concern is with adherence to formalities, or loopholes are sought for economic advantage, one should practise agriculture in some other fashion. It is the task of the respective organisations, with their representatives and the advisory services, to prevent such developments from occurring.

In the end it is important that each grower is increasingly able to act responsibly toward these standards from his own knowledge. Each individual can thank the greater Biodynamic activity for a part of his existence and success, and each local act, even when unseen, contributes to the wider community. Therefore everyone should at all times act in such a way that the trust of the consumer in the Biodynamic method and in Demeter products is confirmed and justified.

On the Structure: In the present time there is a material world view arising from natural science which has as its basis the materialistic evolutionary principle which states that the next evolutionary step develops from a lower one through competition and selection. In Anthroposophy, developed by Rudolf Steiner, a starting point can be found in spiritual science because there the following evolutionary principle can be found: over the progress of world evolution the physical has been increasingly able to incorporate higher beings such as animals and man. The physical embodiment of much older, higher, world-beings is the newest step in world evolution

Agriculture is the expression of an active formative meeting between mankind and the natural world.The form of the landscape is determined by the needs of people living together in a particular culture.




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The products, which this agriculture yields, must speak to the being of mankind in order to be able to truly nourish. The keeping of cattle, with the resulting manure production, has been and still is the basis for arable production. Animal husbandry requires feed production, cattle in particular needing roughage, which is an important factor to consider when designing the crop rotation. Plant production is determined by the needs of both man and animal, and requires a conscientious approach to soil husbandry. Locally appropriate management acknowledges the needs of plant and soil, animal and man. Therefore the section on arable and plant production including manure and soil considerations

stands first in the standards, then the preparations are detailed, followed by the animal kingdom.Finally the legal regulations are summarised.

With the exception of the introduction, which puts the ideas in context, the text is laid out in two columns. In the right hand one are keywords and summarised descriptions, which are fully elaborated,in the left hand one.

On labelling : The labelling of produce with the legally registered (and hence protected) word(s) and/or logos “ demeter ”, “In conversion to demeter ”, “Biodyn”, “from the Biodynamic method”, or “from Biodynamic production”, as well as any other indications which state or imply a connection to this method legally requires that there is a certification contract covering the producer, processor and trader.

For the certification contract for agricultural, horticultural, orcharding, vineyard and forestry enterprises,the legal requirements, in particular those of EEC reg. 834/2007 and 889/2008 governing organic agriculture (Organic Growing), The ‘Organic Foods Production Act’ dated November 1990 in the United States of America, or the “The Australian National Standards for Organic and Bio-Dynamic Produce dated February 1992, must be met in addition to the following standards. The currently valid standards from Demeter International are to be used for processing and labelling of both food and non-food production from Biodynamic agriculture. At all places in these standards where the word, stylised word,logo, or trademark “ Demeter” appears, Biodynamic® is implied. These standards shall be the criteria for the use of “Demeter”, “Biodynamic®” and other related trademarks (e.g. Biodyn)

2. The Farm Organism – Farm Individuality

"Now a farm comes closest to its own essence when it can be conceived of as a kind of independent individuality, a self-contained entity. In reality, every farm ought to aspire to this state of being a self-contained individuality.

Rudolf Steiner (GA 327, "Agricultural Course", 2nd

Lecture.)

All life is formed according to organic principles. Separately emerging organs unite together to give a living entity. This organism is more than the sum of its parts. Organisms are contained by a skin,allowing an inner life to develop which exists in relation to the outer terrestrial and cosmic environment.If this inner life is subject to a self-determined development, an individuality is formed.

If an agricultural enterprise is organised on these principles, and forms from its own resources a system of soil life, plant development and appropriate animal husbandry, then we can justifiably speak of a farm organism. Such enterprises produce healthy food because of the resultant soil fertility, the enhanced life forces in the plants, and animal husbandry compatible to the livestock type. At the same time the activities of these enterprises promote, through their environmental awareness, a landscape that is capable of development and regeneration.

Each locality is different from every other one. Every agricultural practice through its methods of working the soil, its rotations, and its fertiliser policies develops a particular soil flora and fauna. Which animals are kept, and the type of stabling chosen for them, determines soil fertility parameters. The human decisions and ways of working co-operatively give the enterprise a particular character. On top of that man can develop a greater harmony and order in the structure of the farm organism out of spiritual-scientific awareness.




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3. Arable and Plant production

As plants are life forms that are particularly dependent on environmental influences, they require as well as a suitable growing location, sufficient light and warmth. The prerequisite for good development of leaves, flowers and fruit/seeds is a vital living soil that allows good root penetration. The design of this growing location is of greater importance for the health of the plant than are individual plant

husbandry measures. Equally important is the choice of appropriate varieties and species. The one sidedness of various cultivated plants can be balanced out if a crop rotation appropriate to the local conditions is implemented. In this regard, the development of sustainable soil fertility requires that consideration be given to including sufficient legumes (if possible not only annuals) as well as a high proportion of leaf crops in the rotation.

"To fertilise means to enliven the soil ". This dictum leads us towards a method of fertility building that has its origins in the connections between the life spheres of plant and animal. In any fertility programme, the appropriate use of the Biodynamic preparations is of prime importance.

An important aim when working the soil is the intensification of soil biological processes. Energy efficient methods should be given priority

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3.1. Seed and propagation materialThe inner qualities and the outer characteristics of the seed influence onthe one hand the resistance of the crop during its growth, and on the otherthe yield potential (as related to its growing location) and its nutritionalqualities. In order to achieve the qualities set as goals for Biodynamicagriculture, particular care and attention to detail is required. Openpollinated varieties, propagated in Biodynamic agriculture, shall be used inpreference.

3.1.1. Seeds

Seeds must originate preferably from Biodynamic agriculture, or else fromorganic agriculture, if Biodynamic seed is unavailable.Seeds from Biodynamic agriculture or from organic agriculture must notbe treated with synthetic chemical seed treatment agents at all, includingin storage. Irradiation with ionising radiation is excluded.If seeds are unavailable in Biodynamic or organic quality, untreated seedof conventional origin may be used after approval by the respectiveorganisation.

Hybrids of cereals, with the exception of corn (Zea mays), are excludedfor the production of feed and food. (APP 1: see Appendix 7) Seeds andplant material produced using protoplasm and cytoplasm fusiontechniques are prohibited.Seed of genetically modified varieties may not be multiplied or sown on

Demeter enterprises.

Seed and seed potatoes must originate from Biodynamic agriculture if available.

Synthetic chemical seed treatment agents are not allowed at all.

Only measures conforming to these standards are allowed.

Genetically modified seed and plant materials are forbidden.

3.1.2. Propagation materialPropagation material must originate preferably from Biodynamic or if notavailable then from organic agriculture.

3.1.2.1. Propagation material for vegetablesThe respective organisation can issue an exemption to use conventionalpropagation material (produced without the use of genetic engineering) inthe case of unavailability of Biodynamic or organic propagation material.This exemption may not be given for vegetable seedlings and youngplants for growing on that have a short time to maturity and sale (e.g.lettuce, etc.)

(APP 1: see Appendix 7)




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3.1.2.2. Propagation material for tree crops and perennialcropsIf propagation material for tree crops and perennial crops can bedocumented as being unavailable in Biodynamic or organic quality,untreated conventional propagation material may be imported.


Imports of no more than two trees per year per farm are exempt.

The unavailability of organic seed and/or propagation material must be proven to the respective organisa-

tion.

3.2. Manures

Enlivening the soil, and the maintenance and development of soil fertility are basic objectives of the Biodynamic method. The greatest influence in this regard, besides the methods used to work the soil,and the structure of the crop rotation, is the careful use of prepared manures from domesticated animals, in particular the cow.

3.2.1. Amount of manureThe maximum amount of nitrogen that may be supplied by way of themanures used, averaged over the crop rotation, may not exceed theamount that would be produced by those animals which the farm couldsupport from its own fodder production (Max. 1.4 manure unit/ha basedon the total area of the farm; see Appendix 1).For perennial crops in tropical or sub-tropical climates it is allowed toimport up to a maximum of 170 kgN/ha if nitrogen export is higher than 90kgN/ha. The deficit has to be substantiated by a nitrogen balance, to beapproved by the respective organisation.

Market gardens are allowed to import up to a maximum of 170 kgN/ha if

nitrogen export is higher than 112 kgN/ha. The deficit has to besubstantiated by a nitrogen-balance, to be approved by the respectiveorganisation.

The total amount of nitrogen may not exceed 1.4 manure unit/ha based on the total area of the farm.

If the organic manures produced by the farm, together with other planthusbandry methods are not sufficient for the soils‘ requirements,commercial organic manures may be used. However, forced growth is tobe avoided.

The use of commercial organic manures is limited.

The amount of nitrogen on the area in question, imported in commercialorganic manures, may not exceed that which could be supplied bycompost, stable manure and/or green manures, and in any case must beless than 0.5 manure unit/ha (exception: perennial crops).The allowable manures are listed in appendix 4.

Imported nitrogen In commercial organic manures must not exceed 0.5 manure unit/ha

On farm manures must be handled with care and attention. The storagecapacity must be adequate, and an appropriate method for spreading isrequired. Nutrient losses during storage and use by volatilisation andleaching are to be minimised.

Careful storage,preparation and spreading.

3.2.2. Brought in manures and soilsRock dusts (including those containing phosphate) and soils can be used.Synthetic nitrogen sources, Chile saltpetre, water soluble phosphaticfertilisers, as well both pure potassium salts and potassium salts with achloride content of greater than 3% are totally prohibited.

Municipal composts and sewage sludge are not allowed.

The fertilisers that may be imported are listed in appendix 4.

Synthetic nitrogen fertilisers, Chile saltpetre, water soluble phosphate,pure potassium salts

and those with more than 3% chloride are strictly prohibited.




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Imported animal manures may not originate from animals kept in intensiveanimal husbandry systems, or systems using no floor litter. In this section“intensive” includes any animals that do not have regular, reliable andeffective access to the outdoors (e.g. hens kept in barns etc.); or subjectto unethical practices (e.g. beak clipping of hens, tooth cutting of pigletsetc.)Appropriate systems must be applied to prevent the contamination of

certified land by residues of veterinary remedies, feed additives such asantibiotics, natural feed contaminants such as mercury in fish meal andother residues such as herbicides in the litter.

No animal manures from intensive animal husbandry systems.

Fertilisers that are covered in appendix 4, section 3.1 require theagreement from the respective organisation before importation (seeappendix 4).The origin, amount, and use (which area, which crop) of all brought infertilisers must be adequately documented.

The origins and use of brought in fertilisers and soils are to be documented.

Soil pH is to be maintained and regulated according to soil and croprequirements. If necessary lime may be used.

pH-value to be maintained at optimal levels.

3.3. Plant care and protectionA high degree of resistance to fungal, bacterial and insect attack in thecrops is the aim of using the many faceted Biodynamic method, (whichincludes aspects of landscape care and development), over the wholefarm.If these methods prove insufficient, the techniques and materials listed inappendix 5 may be used.

Natural crop resistance to be strengthened.

Synthetic chemical materials to control pests, fungal attack (includingprophylactic usage), viral or other diseases, weeds, or to regulate growthin crops are prohibited.

Any usage of a material not permitted by these standards leads todecertification of the farm, or at least the treated crops and areas.

New materials and methods may be tested only with the agreement of therespective organisation (see appendix 5).

Every usage of a non- permitted material leads to decertification

of the farm, or at least the treated crops and areas.

3.3.1. Protection in storageStorage of Demeter products is to be carried out in the spirit of thesestandards, in such a way that any loss of quality is avoided (e.g. throughthe choice of storage containers, methods of protection against pests etc.)

If a significant pest problem arises the respective organisation is to be

informed. It will decide how to implement control measures based on theprinciples in these standards. Product contamination during controlmeasurements must be strictly avoided.

Requirement to notify a significant pest problem.

3.4. Market gardens and field vegetables.

Production from market gardens, field vegetable production, hop production and other perennial crops are just as much organs in the farm enterprise as arable production. However farms with a large proportion of such production require a particular overall plan for the enterprise.

On intensive market gardens, which have different crops following each other frequently on the same

area of land, particular care in the soil husbandry is necessary. A fertiliser programme based on animals kept on the enterprise itself is strongly recommended. If it is not possible to keep animals, co- operation with another Biodynamic enterprise that does, by exchanging feed or manure, is




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recommended. The preparation of manures using the Biodynamic compost preparations is to be given particular attention.

A further recommendation is to extend the crop rotation to include representatives of plant families not normally grown, (e.g. Phacelia or buckwheat) as break crops. Legumes and other plants useful for soil development or for beneficial insects should always be in the crop rotation.

As well as the methods described in the sections above, market gardens, intensive field vegetable production, orcharding and other perennial crops must meet the following requirements:

Biodynamic soils, which are highly active, will have a high rate ofmetabolism when they are worked intensively, and hence measures tobuild the humus content require particular attention.

Manure from conventional animal husbandry can only be obtained when itis not available from organic enterprises and needs approval from therespective organisation.

The soil however may not be kept free of vegetation through the wholeyear. Mulching is allowed (see 3.4.4.).

Humus content is of particular importance.Market gardens and farms with animal husbandry should co- operate as one unit.

3.4.1. Seed, propagation material and seedlingsThe regulations in Section 3.1 – Seed and propagation material - apply.

3.4.2. Manures, soils and potting mixesWell rotted, prepared manure from ruminants, which are part of the farmherd, form the most important basis for fertilising. If manures have to bebrought in, special care has to be taken that they are residue free, andthat the animals are not from enterprises using intensive animalhusbandry methods.

Manure imported only from non-intensive animal husbandry.

Soils and potting mixes should be produced from a mixture of on farmmaterials if possible. At least 25% by volume of such materials shouldconsist of prepared composts made from plant material or animalmanure.

At least 25% by volume of soils and potting mixes shall be prepared compost.

Plant materials for composting, and finished compost made from bark,leaves, wood shavings etc. that comes from community areas may beused if a residue test proves that they are acceptably clean. The use ofcommercial potting mixes requires the agreement of the respectiveorganisation.

A residue analysis is required for compost from communal areas.

Fertilisers, crop rotation and growing techniques used are to be arrangedso as to minimise nitrogen leaching to the ground water, or the enrichmentof nitrates in the vegetables.

Nitrogen leaching and nitrate deposition in vegetables to be

minimised.

Peat is only allowed as a constituent for propagation beds and pottingmixes.The proportion of peat is to be kept as low as possible, and may notexceed 75%. The use of synthetic soil improving agents is not allowed. Allfertilisers must meet the requirements of these standards (see appendix4).

The proportion of peat in propagating beds and potting mixes must not exceed 75%.

Soil-less growing techniques (hydroponics, thin soil layer etc.), cropsgrown on inert substrates (e.g. scoria) and container crops are notallowed. Thin soil layer techniques (with the exception of cress, andsprouts grown on a base that is sold with the sprouts) are not allowed.

Soil-less and thin soil layer techniques are not allowed.




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Chicory roots should be forced in soil. If water techniques are used, thewater must have no additives, which are prohibited in these standards. Ifwater-forcing techniques are used, the chicory must be marketed with adeclaration to this effect.

Water forced chicory must be declared as such.

Potting mixes and growing substrates may be steam sterilised. Aftersterilisation, the Biodynamic compost preparations, liquid compost

extracts, the horn manure preparation or the cow pat pit preparation are tobe promptly used to guide the microbial recolonisation of the soil.

After steam sterilising measures must be

taken to ensure microbial recolonisation.

3.4.3. Plant care and protectionThe regulations in section 3.3 “Plantcare and plant protection” apply.Production under cloth or film especially plastic which covers the soil,should be kept to a minimum. Perforated materials suitable for reusing areto be preferred.

3.4.4. Weed controlCrop rotation, how the soil is worked and crop husbandry are of decisiveimportance for weed control. Mechanical measures are to be preferredover thermal techniques. Steaming of the soil in the field is not permitted.

The use of industrial mulching materials, such as mulching paper or weedsuppressing mats, is restricted to soils heavily covered with weeds,because of the wider ecological effects of complete weed suppressionand the difficulty of spraying the field sprays.The use of such materials requires the agreement of the respectiveorganisation.

The use of industrial mulch materials is allowed with restrictions.

3.4.5. Production under glass and plasticsThe energy usage for heating crops under glass or plastic should be keptas low as possible, and with exception of seedling production andornamental plants having a higher heat requirement, must be limited to anappropriate extension of the growing season.

Energy used to heat to be kept to the minimum.

Energy saving techniques, such as the use of special heating systems(e.g. ground or vegetation heating) must be introduced to the enterprisewherever possible.

Energy saving techniques must be used in preference.

In glasshouses, shallow soil steam sterilisation is allowed.After sterilisation, the Biodynamic compost preparations, liquid compostextracts, the horn manure preparation or the cow pat pit preparation are

to be promptly used to guide the microbial recolonisation of the soil.

After steam sterilising measures must be taken to ensure

microbial recolonisation.

3.4.6. Harvest and preparation for saleThe high quality of biodynamically produced products is to be maintainedby careful harvest, preparation and storage techniques.

3.4.7. Exceptions for market gardens with vegetables and ornamental plantsEnterprises growing ornamental plants as well as vegetables must convertthe areas in ornamental production at the same time if there is no clear,permanent, spatial separation of the production areas and glasshouses.

Fertilisers, plant protection, soils and potting mixes must meet thesestandards requirements.

If no clear separation exists the ornamental production area must

be part of the whole conversion.




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If there is clear, permanent, spatial separation of the production areas andglasshouses as separate production units, the respective organisation canapprove the ornamental section to be converted in steps. The aim is toconvert the entire enterprise inside five years.During these five years, the use of conventional soils and potting mixes ispossible on the ornamental section. Origin, type, amount, and usage,must be documented.

If clear separation exists the ornamental production area may be converted in steps.

The plant protection materials used must however meet these standards.The separation of the production areas must be defined by carefuldocumentation (plot history cards, plot layout, farm diary, and/or othersimilar records).

Plant protection materials used must meet these standards.

Organic wastes from the ornamental production areas which are not yetfully converted must be composted separately, and used only on this area.

Separate composting is necessary.

Conventional raw and ready to use materials may be imported on to theornamental production area. Here again, exact records are to be kept.

Requirement to document the importation of conventional raw and ready to use materials.

The varying production methods between the ornamental plants and the

vegetables, as well as conventionally produced brought in ornamentalsmust be declared to the consumer as such by labelling in a clearunambiguous fashion.

Unambiguous

labelling of organic and conventional produce.

3.5. Orcharding and other perennial crops

Despite the limited possibilities in orcharding, all the available measures of mixed planting, green sward, interplanting and soil husbandry are to be used. These measures can be supported by intensive husbandry of the perennial crop. The timely use of measures, in particular to strengthen the plant, can balance out this one sidedness.That perennial crops remain rooted in the one locality demands better husbandry of the immediate environment. Creating harmony here can help to reduce the requirement for particular treatments.

The green sward should suit the locality and consist of many differentplant species. The soil may not be kept free of vegetation or naturalcover throughout the whole year. The establishment year may be anexception to this regulation if necessary.


Exemptions for orchards in semi-arid climates require approval of therespective organisation

The aim is a wide variety of species in the green sward. The soil may not be kept bare all year.

3.5.1. Plant materialIf plant material of the required varieties is available from Demeterproduction, then this must be used in preference. If plant material isavailable only from organic production, then this must be used.

Demeter or organic plant material is to be used.

3.5.2. Manures and soil husbandryIn orchards that have no animals of their own, the amount of outsideorganic fertiliser that may be imported is limited to 1.2 manure unit/ha oforchard area. The total amount of fertiliser used may not exceed theequivalent of 96 kg N/ha of orchard area.

Maximum organic fertiliser import is 1.2 manure unit/ha, and 90kg N/ha of orchard area.

3.5.3. Plant care and protectionRecognising the particular conditions in orcharding the regulations insection 3.3 - Plant care and protection – apply




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3.5.4. Support stakesIn northern climates no tropical or sub tropical woods are allowed to beused as support stakes for reasons of environmental degradation. Thetropical grasses, bamboo and tonkin, may be used.

In northern climates tropical and subtropical woods are not permitted.

3.6. MushroomsStandards in this area are currently under development. Interestedpersons are requested to contact Demeter International, group forproduction standards directly.

3.7. Sprouts and shootsThe production of sprouts and shoots must use seeds, roots andrhizomes, which have been multiplied biodynamically.Material of conventional origin is not allowed.

Seeds, roots and

rhizomes from con-

ventional production

are not allowed.

The water used in the production of sprouts and shoots must be ofdrinking quality. If used, all substrates and carriers must meet therequirements of these standards. In cases of doubt, Demeter Internationalsubcommittee for production standards will give a ruling.

Water of drinking quality only must be used.

3.8. New crops and production techniquesNew crops or production techniques not covered in these standards, andwhich are not usual practice in organically managed enterprises, may onlybe trialed with the permission of Demeter International or the respectiveorganisation.

(APP 3: see appendix 7)

3.9 Clearing of virgin rainforest

The clearance of virgin rain forest for agricultural usage is forbidden. Otherhigh value conservation areas must also be protected, and may only becleared after an exemption has been approved by the respectiveorganisation.


High value conservation areas must be protected

4. Biodynamic Preparations (see Appendix 10)

All the measures used on a biodynamically managed enterprise must be evaluated according to holistic principles. In a living totality, it is of real importance not only to balance out the material requirements of the system, but also as Rudolf Steiner explicitly indicated in the Agriculture Course, to balance the depletion of life forces. Conscientious attention to detail in the production, storage and usage of the preparations is of huge importance in this regard.

Spiritual scientific knowledge indicates that components of mineral, plant and animal origin can be metamorphosed by the effects of cosmic/earthly influences during the course of the year, into preparations imbued with forces. When used in the soil, on plants and manures, these preparations contribute to enlivening the earth, stimulating yield and quality in plants, and health, vitality and production of animals on the Biodynamic farm.

The preparations should be made on the farm, or in co-operation withother farms, if possible. The plants and animal sheaths for their

If possible, on-farm production of the preparations.




14

production should come from the farm, or if possible from anotherbiodynamically managed enterprise. The experience and knowledgegained to date from observation and experimentation is to be used in theirproduction and usage.

The full effect can only be expected when all the preparations (compost,and spray preparations) are used in manures and for plant carethroughout the year using appropriate methods and times (such as stirringfor one hour). An effective method of stirring the preparations, or acontract with a stirring and spraying service, must be present on theenterprise, and inspected as part of the annual inspection.The spray preparations are to be used as appropriate to the crop type:- Cow-horn manure is to be spread at the start of the vegetative phase,

or after harvest of the certified crop, but in any case at least once ayear.

- Horn silica is to be sprayed as the plant stage of development dictates,however at least once a year.

- The spray preparations must be applied with clean equipment.

Preparations are most effective when used collectively.

All organic manures (stable manure, compost etc.) are to be treated withthe compost preparations. It is recommended to spread a composite

preparation (such as cowpat prep, barrel compost, prepared 500 etc.) asa substitute on those areas, which receive no prepared manure in thecourse of the year.

A prerequisite for the certification of the farm as "In Conversion todemeter " (Biodyn) after 12 months of farming to these standards is atleast one application of the cow-horn manure and the horn silica, as wellas the spreading of prepared manures (or the cow pat preparationproduced with the compost preparations as a substitute) on all areas ofthe enterprise. This applies equally to new areas to be converted.

All farm manures must be prepared with the compost preparations.Intensively managed areas (arable, vegetables, vineyards and orchards)including those in mountainous regions and all land producing foddermust be completely covered with the spray preparations every year.

An exception can be made for steep slopes in mountainous regions(providing they are not intensively managed, or mown), and for areas thatcannot be driven on e.g. native forest, swampland. This exception can beconsidered by the respective national organisation when the licenseeproduces a preparation management plan describing the plannedpreparation usage (areas incompletely or not covered and with whatfrequency, stirring and spraying machinery available on the farm,proposed improvements to the coverage in the future, etc.) The exceptionhas a time limit, but may be renewed.

Preparation usage is a valuable aid in the conversion phase

All farm manures are to be prepared. All intensively managed areas including those

producing fodder must receive the spray preparations

5. Animal Husbandry

These standards indicate intentions for animal husbandry, giving mostly only the minimum requirements.

Domesticated animals, as ensouled beings, are particularly dependent on our care. Daily management should be carried out in such a way that the animal receives all due care, as well as provision for carrying out its innate behavioural traits. Imbalances at either the physical or soul level need to be recognised in time and carefully rectified. Continuous observant care of the animals is a prerequisite for this.

Animal husbandry, with the accompanying fodder production is an important part of the agricultural enterprise. With respect to the development of the enterprise, the farm organism cannot do without live stock. This applies to the ruminant in particular. The fodder plants and the well-balanced manure that




15

comes into being because of cattle, contribute considerably through the enlivening of the soil, to the long term flourishing of a farm. The harmonious co-operation of mankind with the three kingdoms of nature can lead to a living, ensouled farm organism.

"You must know, for instance, that the cosmic influences that come to expression in a plant,come from the interior of the earth and are led upwards. Thus, if a plant especially rich in these cosmic influences is eaten by an animal, the manure that the animal’s digestion system

provides as a result of consuming such fodder, will be just the right thing for the soil where that plant grows."

Rudolf Steiner

Experience shows that animals which are born and reared on a farm, which cares for their feed and husbandry needs in a loving way, have good health and fertility with a high lifetime production.

Therefore every effort must be made to organise optimal living conditions for the animals in each given situation, and to bring animals into the farm only from other equally well run enterprises.

5.1. Requirement to have livestock

Demeter certification of agricultural enterprises without the incorporationof ruminants or Equidae on the farm is not possible.Exemptions from this requirement have to be regulated by the respectiveorganisation.


Demeter certification for agricultural enterprises without the incorporation of ruminants or Equidae is not possible as a rule.

In market gardens and in enterprises having solely perennial crops, therequirement to have their own animals is not obligatory if manures,compost, green manures, and preparation usage is particularly intensive.

5.2. Stocking rateThe stocking rate is determined by the possibilities for fodder production,

as dictated by climate and the local conditions. It is to take into account themaintenance and development of soil fertility.The minimum stocking rate has to be defined by the certificationorganisation in each country. The maximum stocking rate may not exceed2.0 livestock units/ha, corresponding to a maximum of 1.4 manureunits/ha, if feed is brought in.

Stocking rate :

2.0 livestock units/ha maximum if feed is brought in

5.3. Co-operation between farmsCo-operation between certified Biodynamic farms (e.g. the exchange offodder or animal manures) in the sense of a biological unit is possible.The standards are to be applied to this new unit as a whole.In cases where no biodynamic farm is sufficiently close by, co-operation

can be organised between the certified Biodynamic farm and an organicfarm. In either case, however, there must be a legal contract, which mustbe lodged with the respective organisation.Before co-operation with an organic farm is permitted, the followingconditions must be fulfilled:

a) The co-operating partner farm must feed the animals with 100%organic fodder,

b) The co-operating partner farm must be converted entirely toorganic production.

c) An exemption must be requested by the respective organisation.d) Farmyard manure has to be prepared on the farm where it

originates (ideally in the stable, or at least six weeks beforeapplication).

The equivalent manure for the complete area may not exceed 1.4mu/ha year.

Co-operation between farms is to be regulated by contract.




16

5.4. ManagementThe management of animals is to follow principles of organic husbandryas well as those relating to the animal type and its being. Care for the

animals showing respect and love promotes well being, health and theirproduction capabilities.

The management conditions shall follow principles appropriate to the being of the animal and its type.

The stable style and the other management conditions must be organisedsuch that the animals can express normal behavioural characteristics andmovement; e.g. they must be able to stand and lie down unhindered, andhave a dry resting place. Stables in which the animals have freedom ofmovement are therefore preferred.

If stable construction advisory services make a sound argument justifyingan extension to the conversion period, this may be extended.The management system should allow the animals free contact with theirnatural surrounding (sun, rain, earth under foot etc.) if at all possible. Thisshould be guaranteed in particular by access to pasture, or at least to the

open air. Care must also be taken to provide sufficient light, a good stableenvironment and protection from the wind.

To tie up animals in housing is forbidden. For security or welfare reasonsa limited exemption may, after approval by the respective organisation, beissued by the inspection-body for certain animals.

In stables which were built before the 24th

August 2000 tying up may onlybe allowed until December 31

st2010 at the latest provided that the

animals are comfortably littered, that individual management isguaranteed and that regular exercise is provided.


Small farms must also respect the innate needs of their animals. Thismeans providing access to pasture and exercise as frequently aspossible, ideally daily in summer and a minimum of twice a week in winter.Tethering must be restricted to a minimum

Access to pasture, or at the very least access to the open air

is necessary.

Changes to the construction which are necessary from an appropriateanimal husbandry viewpoint (e.g. the building in of access to pasture, baysfor rearing groups of calves, rebuilding of fully slatted floors etc.) are to becompleted inside a maximum five year conversion period.


A conversion period is allowed for the construction of suitable designs to meet the animal husbandry requirements of these standards.

Limited exemptions from the requirements governing housing and outsideaccess may be issued by the respective organisation until December 31

st

2010 at the latest if the following Conditions exist:

- Insufficient access to pasture- Stable is too small- access to stream lake or pond for water fowl is lacking- poultry houses which do not fulfil all requirements- open air run for poultry which is not covered with grass- Shelter plantings or artificial shelter not available in the exercise area-


The above requirements apply only for farms whose stables were builtbefore the 24

thAugust 1999 and which conformed to the Demeter

production standards at that date.




17

5.4.1 Cattle management

The horns of ruminants have significance for the development of life forces. They provide an opposing balance of forces to the intensive digestion and absorption processes. They are a part of the total being of the cow. In comparison to other animal types, cattle manure has a particularly stimulating effect on soil fertility. The horns also have a large significance as a sheath in the production of the Biodynamic preparations.

Dairy cattle and cows suckling calves are to have access to pastureduring the summer half-year. Where this is not possible, access to theopen air must be available all year round. Young stock (breedingreplacements) have the same requirement for freedom of movementreasons. To tie up young replacement or fattening stock in housing allyear round is not allowed. Cows should be given freedom of movement atcalving. A calving bay should be provided for if stable renovations occur.In those enterprises where, because of their situation in the village, or thedistance to/size of their outlying fields, or for other practical reasons,access to pasture land or open air ranging is not possible, an exemptionmay be approved. (APP 9: see Appendix 7)

Dairy cattle and cows suckling calves must have access to pasture in summer or access to the open air all year round. To tie up young and fattening stock all year round is not allowed.Access to the open air has to be available where ever possible.

The stable type and the internal arrangement and fittings must meet thefollowing requirements:- The sleeping stalls for cattle are to have appropriate bedding.- Fully slatted floors (more than 50%) are not permitted and the slatted

area may not be calculated as resting-place.- Cow trainers are not permitted.- Sufficient area to be provided, and the herd managed to allow the

expression of social behaviour and unhindered feeding.There must be at least as many feeding/sleeping stalls as there areanimals in the stable. In stables with ad lib feeding, fewer feeding stationsmay be offered.

Sleeping stalls for cattle are to have appropriate bedding.Fully slatted floors are not permitted.Cow trainers are not permitted.

Calves are to be given contact with each other as soon as possible. They

are to be reared in groups from the second week on if there are sufficientnumbers of animals of the same age. Boxes for calves are permitted onlythrough the first week.

Calves are to be

reared in groups from the second week on.

Dehorning of animals and dehorned animals are not permitted on thefarm. In well-justified cases, an exemption may be approved by therespective organisation but must be reviewed annually .


Dehorning of stock and dehorned animals are not permitted on the farm.

5.4.2. Management of sheep, goats and horses.The conditions for cattle apply to sheep, goats and horses accordingly. In

addition for sheep, operations such as castration, attaching elastic bandsto the tails and tail docking must not be carried out systematically inBiodynamic farming. Some of these operations may be authorised by therespective organisation if they are intended to improve the health, welfareor hygiene of the sheep. Such operations must be carried out at the mostappropriate age by qualified personnel and any suffering of the animalsmust be reduced to a minimum.

5.4.3. Management of pigsSleeping stalls are to be spread with straw (or other organic litter). Fullyslatted floors (more than 50%) and management where animals are tiedup are not permitted. Access to the open air where rooting is possible

must be offered where ever possible.(APP 10: see Appendix 7)

Sleeping stalls are to be spread with organic litter. Fully slatted

floors are not permitted.




18

Sows may be contained for farrowing for the shortest time only until 14days at the latest). They may not be tied up in housing. Sows must haveaccess to the open-air wherever local conditions allow. Open sows, giltsand young sows are to be kept in groups.Confining pens with narrow slatted floors or cages are not allowed forweaned piglets. Tooth cutting or other preventative tooth filing of piglets isnot allowed and neither is tail or ear docking.

Nose rings or hog rings, which prevent the pigs from rooting, areforbidden.

Access to the open air must be provided where ever possible.

5.4.4. Management of poultryPoultry require management that allows their natural behaviour e.g.scratching, perching, and flocking together, to be expressed as far aspossible.

Poultry may not be kept on perforated mesh, or in cages.

At least one third of the poultry house floor area must be solid (no slattedor of grid construction) and covered with straw, wood shavings, or sand. Inpoultry houses for laying hens there must be pits for the manure andhigher rounded perches which are situated preferably over the manurepits.The exit/entry pop-holes must have an adequate height for the birds andthey must have a length of at least 4 m per 100 m

2floor area of the

poultry house. Exemptions from the respective organisation are possible.A conversion-plan must be presented to the inspection-bodies.Sufficient water-bowls and feeding troughs must be provided and theymust be easily accessible.Between each batch of poultry reared, the buildings must be emptied,cleaned and disinfected for hygienic reasons.If the climatic conditions allow, poultry must have access to an outsiderun predominately covered with vegetation or partly roofed over. To

protect the animals against weather and predators the outside run shouldbe provided with protection, preferably natural cover e.g. bushes andtrees. Exemptions for laying hens are possible. A conversion-plan must bepresented to the inspection-bodies.


Caged systems are prohibited

In ground managed

systems at least one third of the floor area is to be available as scratching area.

Open-air runs are required for young birds and laying hens.

The main part of the outside run must be grassed. This may be providedby use in rotation, recovery phases for the vegetation or by sowing. Therun has to be planted with trees or hedges or to be provided with othershelter facilities for the animals.

Water birds have to have access to a stream, lake or a pond. If climaticconditions allow, meat birds and birds for flock replacement require

outside runs appropriate to their stage of growth. Exemptions from theinspection body is possible. A conversion-plan must be presented to therespective organisation.


Other poultry are to have access to an

outside run, waterfowl also having access to open water.

Eggs must be able to be laid in nest boxes, and a sufficient number ofboxes must be provided.

Nest boxes are to be provided for egg laying.

The hen houses must have natural lighting during the day. Artificiallighting must be turned off for at least eight hours continuously during thenight.

At night there must be at least eight hours of darkness.

Beak cutting is forbidden. Beak cutting is not permitted.




19

5.5. Feeding

Feeds must be appropriate to the class of animals, it’s age and it’s physiological needs, with care also being given to providing sufficient mineral nutrition. The necessary minerals and trace elements should be of natural origin as far as possible (Herbs, leaf forage etc.)

Fodder produced on the farm forms the basis of animal nutrition. At least50% of the feed (DM), must originate on the farm or in co-operation withanother Demeter farm. (APP 14: see Appendix 7)Fodder produced on the farm from the first year of conversion to Demeter(the stand down year in which no certification exists) can comprise up to20% of the annual fodder requirement for roughage consuming animalsand 10% for other animals.

Fodder produced on the farm is the starting

point for a feeding regime appropriate to the animals carried on that farm.

Each enterprise should strive for full self-sufficiency. Concentrates shouldcomprise mainly grain and legumes. The feeding of by-products ofindustrial extraction is not permitted.

Feeding of extraction by-products is not allowed.

Antibiotics, sulphonamide drugs, coccidiostats, hormones, syntheticcompounds from organic chemistry and pharmaceuticals are not

permitted as additives to feed. Isolated amino acids, growth promoters,production enhancers (feed antibiotics and enhancers) and syntheticchemical feed additives (except vitamins) are not allowed.

Limits on the use of feed additives.

5.5.1. Brought in feeds and in conversion feeds

If fodder is to be imported onto the enterprise, particular care in choosingfeed quality suitable to Demeter production is to be taken.Brought in feed should originate from Demeter production if possible.

Imported fodder if possible from Demeter production.




20

- At least two thirds of the annual fodder requirements DM (dry matter)offered to the animals must originate from Demeter production

- With regard to fodder supplied in the feed ration and calculated on adaily basis:

• Certified Demeter in conversion feeds, either brought in or fromon-farm production (2

ndyear of conversion and above) can be fed

up to a maximum of 50% DM of the feed ration.• Feeds from on-farm production which is in the first year of

conversion to Demeter can be fed up to a maximum of 20% DMof the feed ration.

• Organic feeds can be fed up to a maximum of 20% DM of thefeed ration.

• For a transition period, until supplies of Demeter feeds are morewidely available, the limit on organic feeds can be increased to50% DM of the feed ration if an exemption is obtained from therespective organisation.


• Certified Demeter in conversion feed, feed from land on theholding in the first year of conversion to Demeter, and organicfeed may together not exceed 50% DM of the feed ration.

- With regard to grazing only and calculated on an annual basis:

• Certified Demeter In Conversion land (2nd

year and above) whichis part of the holding can be grazed up to a maximum of 30% ofthe grazing period for those livestock and calculated on an annualbasis.

• Land in the first year of conversion to Demeter which is part of theholding can be grazed up to a maximum of 20% of the grazingperiod for those livestock and calculated on an annual basis.

• Grazing of all classes of in conversion land (1st

year, 2nd

year, andabove) is limited to a maximum of 30% of the grazing period for

those livestock and calculated on an annual basis.• Grazing of land that is in conversion to Demeter (1

styear, 2

ndyear,

and above) is restricted to young stock, dry cows, and dry ewes.Milking cows, ewes in milk, livestock within three months offinishing, and laying hens must be grazed on fully Demetercertified land. (APP 13: see Appendix 7)

At least two thirds of the annual feed requirement from Demeter sources.

Conventional fodder may not be purchased.

Each purchase of feeds, feed-preparations, feed additives minerals- andvitamin mixtures and silage making processing aids has to be registeredaccording to the Demeter indications. In the same way it has to bechecked that there are no genetically manipulated agents or their

derivatives in the product. Proof of unavailability from Biodynamic sourcesis to be included as part of the annual certification process.Documentation showing the origin, designation, amount and how the feedwas used must be supplied for every importation of feed.

The importation of approved fodder is regulated in appendices two and three

5.5.2. Feeding of dairy cows, sheep, goats and horses.The fodder must be appropriate and contain as high a content ofroughage (greenfeed e.g. pasture, hay, silage) as possible, but at least60% DM throughout the entire year. The majority of summer feeds mustbe green material, preferably grazed from pasture.

Proportion of roughage in the feed to be as high as possible.




21

In winter the animals should get as much hay as possible (cows three kgsper animal per day with small ruminants getting correspondingly less). Ifclimatic conditions do not allow the harvesting of good quality hay,exemptions may be given by Demeter International or the respectiveorganisation to feed silage of grass (clover) mowed after the start offlowering as a substitute.The base fodder ration may not consist solely of silage over the course of

the whole year.

A feeding regime consisting solely of silage is not allowed.

The maximum amount of brought in feed from certified organic sourcesis limited to 20% (calculated on an annual dry matter basis).Feeds of animal origin are excluded. This restriction does not apply tomilk and milk products.For purely pastoral farms, where grain growing because of climaticconditions is not practical, and for very poor or extreme locations, therespective organisation can make exceptions on documented reasons inthe permissible amount of brought-in feed.


Milk and milk products are the only feeds of animal origin that are permitted.Brought in feeds may not exceed 20% in total, conventional feeds are excluded.(see appendix 2).

5.5.3. Feeding of beef cattleThe feed ration must be appropriately constituted for ruminants, with aproportion of at least 60% roughage in all seasons e.g. hay, silage or feedstraw. Silage can form the majority of the feed ration, but summer feedingmust include fresh green material.

5.5.4. Feeding of replacement calves, calves for fattening, foal, lambs and kids The following feeds, as far as possible from on-farm production, can be

used: milk, if possible mother’s milk, roughage, milled grains. Calves andfoals should get milk at least three months, sheep and goats 45 days.Fattening on milk alone without the addition of some form of roughage isprohibited.

Fattening on milk

alone is not allowed.

Feeds of animal origin – except milk and milk products - are forbidden tobe fed to ruminants.

Milk and milk products are the only feeds of animal origin that are permitted.

Enterprises without their own dairy production must rear brought in calveson milk from a farm which is certified organic or buy in weaned animalsfrom such farms.

Animals reared in this way may only be marketed using the Demeter

trademark six months after weaning, at the earliest, providing they havebeen fed and managed to the standards during this period.

5.5.5. Nomadic livestock and summer grazing on uncultivated areasMeat from nomadic livestock may be marketed as Demeter if two thirds ofthe fodder is from own production and the farm is Demeter certified. Thebalance may come from extensively managed areas, including naturereserves, which must have had no use of synthetic fertilisers or plantprotection chemicals. A grazing diary must be kept.

The feeding of nomadic livestock must follow the same principles as for livestock reared on the farm.




22

5.5.6. Guest animalsAnimals of conventional origin can be kept on Demeter pastures forgrazing as long as there are no Demeter animals present at the sametime. An approved exemption is required from the respectiveorganisation


Guest animals of conventional origin may be kept on pastures alone

5.5.7. Community pastureAnimals from Demeter enterprises may be kept on community pastures ifthe pasture has not been managed conventionally for at least three yearsand if the conventional animals are from extensive conventionalmanagement. Milk or other products coming from these animals are onlyto be marketed as Demeter if these animals are kept separate from theothers. Exemptions are required from the respective organisation.


Animals have to be kept separate for Demeter marketing

5.5.8. Feeding of pigs

The aim is to produce all the feed requirements for the pigs on the farm.They have to be offered a daily ration of roughage or possibly feeds ofhigh moisture content (e. g. herbage, beets)

Pigs are to be offered a daily ration of roughage or feeds of high moisture content.

Average ration see chapter 5.5.1- No brought in feed from conventional production is allowed.- The total amount of brought in feed including biodynamically grown

feed is limited to 50% (DM) in cases where more than 5 livestockunits of pigs are held on the farm.

The daily ration may not contain conventional feed

- The respective organisation may allow the purchase of certifiedorganic fodder for pigs in amounts up to 50% if no Demeter fodder isavailable. The unavailability has to be proven.

- Self produced fodder from the first year in conversion with the

certification status “in conversion to organic, but not yet certified”, canbe fed to the animals in amounts up to 10% of the averaged ratio.This regulation is restricted to newly acquired areas on certifiedDemeter farms.

Fodder from the first year in conversion can be fed in amounts up

to 10% of the averaged ratio.

5.5.9. Feeding of poultrySpecies specific feed requirements must be respected.

Poultry should be fed daily with roughage ideally from the out door run.Hens are to have a part of their ration as whole grain, spread on theground in the hen house or run. The fattening feed must include at least65% grains.

Waterfowl are to be offered moist feeds as a basic ration.The respective organisation may allow the purchase of certified organicfodder for poultry in amounts up to 50%, if no Demeter fodder is available.The unavailability has to be proved.Self produced fodder from the first year in conversion with the certificationstatus “in conversion to organic, but not yet certified”, can be fed to theanimals in amounts up to 10% of the averaged ratio. This regulation isrestricted to newly acquired areas of certified Demeter farms. Anexemption may be granted by the respective organization to allowconventional feeds up to a maximum of 15% (DM), (maximum 10% from31/12/2007) to be fed to turkey chicks, for fattening, up to the 10

thweek.

(APP 17 : see Appendix 7)

Fodder from the first year in conversion can be fed in amounts up to 10% of the averaged ratio.

No other feeds from conventional production are allowed




23

5.6. Breeding and identification

5.6.1. Breeding

The animals should be born and reared on a certified Biodynamic farm, if possible as part of a permanent herd. Poultry chickens should hatch after natural incubation.

A principle of the Biodynamic method is the keeping of male sires on thefarm, and is therefore highly recommended.Artificial insemination cannot fully replace the effect of the male influencein the farm herd, and is not recommended.It is not permitted to produce animals using genetic manipulation, or bythe use of biotechnology (embryo transfer, sperm separation for sexdetermination).

Embryo transfer and genetic manipulation are not allowed.

5.6.2. Identification of stock and record keepingAll farm-bred and brought in stock must be unequivocally andpermanently identified with an earmark, or other marking. For poultry and

other small live stock, group identification is adequate. Brought in animalsmust be accompanied by a certificate stating their origin. It must bepossible to trace the animals back to the farm on which they were born,and to their parents.

A stock management diary is to be kept (see also section 5.8 Use ofveterinary remedies on animals) which allows reconstruction from birth tothe point of sale. Documents, which contain the same information (forinstance a herd book), can replace the stock management diary.

A stock management diary or equivalent recording system must document all stock movements onto or off the farm, as well as exact identification and details of the origin of individual animals.

5.7. Origin of animals, brought in stock and marketingA) Brought in stock for breeding or herd expansion should in

preference come from certified Biodynamic enterprises. Only if they arenot available may animals from certified organic farms be brought in.When animals from organic farming are not available the certifyingDemeter organisation can allow animals from conventional farms to bebrought in ( up to a maximum of 40% of the herd), but only in thefollowing cases:- rare breeds- to increase herd size- when a farm leases land complete with all the animals on it- sires (male breeding animals)- when a breed is changed- when a new livestock specialisation is developed

(APP 18 : see Appendix 7)

If the brought in animals come from certified organic farms, they maybe marketed as demeter after being managed and fed to thesestandards (see tables).

Conventional animals can only be brought in if an exemption has been approved.

Animals which where brought in from conventional farms or which wereborn before the conversion, with the exception of goats and pigs forbreeding cannot be marketed as demeter .

Animals sourced from conventional farms cannot be marketed using the Demeter trademark.

B) Animals brought in for fattening shall come exclusively fromDemeter enterprises, and only if unavailable may be sourced fromcertified organic enterprises.

Animals of organic or Biodynamic origin only may be brought in for




24

Smallholders who have a few animals for home consumption besidetheir main crop may bring in animals of conventional origin only for thatreason. This is allowed in cases where no certified young animals fromDemeter enterprises or certified organic enterprises are available. Theanimals should be fed and kept according Demeter Standards as muchas possible. It is not allowed to market these animals under theDemeter trademark.

fattening.

5.7.1. Milk, dairy cows and calvesMilk may only be marketed under the label “In Conversion to demeter “ ifthe dairy cows are fed from areas of the farm, which have this certificationlevel.In case of an application not conforming to the standards the label “inconversion to demeter ” may be used only if the feed has been harvestedat the earliest 18 months after the incident. Demeter certification of themilk is possible as soon as the feed comes from Demeter certified areas(see section 5.5.1.).

Milk: The labelling is determined by the certification status of the feed.

If single dairy cows of conventional origin are brought in their milk may bemarketed as demeter or "In conversion to demeter ", depending on thecertification level of the feed, after 6 months of feeding and managementto these standards.

6 months withholding

period before the milk

from brought in dairy

cows of conventional

origin can be sold as

demeter.

Brought in animals for breeding from certified organic farms may bemarketed as demeter after feeding and management to these standardsfor at least 12 month.Calves brought in for rearing on nurse cows should be drawn preferablyfrom Demeter farms. If this is not possible, they must come from certifiedorganic farms.Calves for breeding, that come from conventional management, broughtin only with an exemption to be approved by the respective organisation.


5.7.2. Beef cattle for fatteningBrought in beef cattle for fattening, of organic origin, must be fed andmanaged for at least 2/3 of their lives according to these standards if theyare to be marketed as demeter .Bovines, which were born on the farm before conversion began, or whichhave been brought in from conventional origins cannot be marketed asDemeter or “In conversion to Demeter”.

LABELLING OF PRODUCTS FROM ANIMALS BROUGHT IN FROM ORGANIC OR CONVENTIONAL SOURCES

Product for sale

Cattle

Certificationstatus of the

animal on arrival

Fed and managedto the standards

Labelling of the sale product

Milk Organic — Demeter

Milk Conventional 6 months Demeter

Beef from fattening cattle Organic At least 2/3 of theirlives.

Demeter

Beef from breeding cattle Conventional No marketing with Demeter or in conversion to Demeter

Beef from breeding cattle Organic At least 12 months Demeter




25

5.7.3. Sheep and goatsThe order of rank described in section 5.7 (second paragraph) regulatesbrought in stock.Milk from brought in conventional breeding stock may be marketed underthe Demeter trademark after 6 month.Meat from brought in conventional stock can be marketed as "InConversion to demete r " after six months. Meat of goats from brought in

conventional stock can only be marketed as "demeter " after one year.

6 month withholding

period before the milk

from brought in

animals of

conventional origin

can be sold as

demeter.

LABELLING OF PRODUCTS FROM BROUGHT IN ANIMALS OF ORGANIC OR CONVENTIONAL ORIGIN

Product for sale

Sheep andgoats

Certification statusof the animal when

brought in

Feed andmanagement

conforming to thestandards

Labelling of the sale products

Milk Organic - Demeter

Milk Conventional 6 Months Demeter

Meat Organic At least 6 Months Demeter

Meat Conventional From 6 to 12 Months In Conversion to demeter

Meat (only goats) Conventional More than 12Months

Demeter

5.7.4. PigsThe order of rank described in section 5.7 restricts the purchase fromfemale “young stock” and the other basic requirements.Bringing in of piglets should preferably be from Demeter enterprises. If

unavailable, animals from farms certified organic may be obtained.Piglets for the purpose of fattening only of Demeter or organic origin maybe brought in.Piglets of conventional origin may only be brought in if no animals oforganic origin are available, and then only with an exemption approved bythe respective organisation.


Bringing in conventional piglets when piglets of

Demeter or organic origin are unavailable requires an approved exemption. Piglets for fattening only of Demeter or organic origin may be brought in.

Newly weaned piglets of conventional origin weighing less than 25 kg maybe brought in to start a new herd. Pigs which were brought in asconventional piglets may only be sold with the labelling "In Conversion todemeter " (or Biodyn) on the carcass if they have been fed and managed

on the farm to these standards for at least 6 months. The piglets mustweigh less than 25 kg; i.e. they have to be brought in directly afterweaning.

Only piglets from management systems using floor litter and withundocked tails may be brought in.

Pigs of conventional origin may be marketed as "In conversion to demeter" after feeding

and management to these standards for 6 months.


Product for sale

Pigs

Certificationstatus of theanimal when

brought in

Age whenbrought in

Feed andmanagement

conforming to the

standards

Labelling of the saleproducts




26

Meat Organic At least 2/3 of life demeter

Meat Conventional Piglets to 25kg,directly afterweaning

At least 6 months In Conversion todemeter

Meat Conventional(Breedinganimal)

At least 2 years Demeter

5.7.5. PoultryDay old chicks and pullets may be brought in. The order of rank describedin section 5.7 (second paragraph) regulates brought in stock. Purchase ofconventional pullets is not possible.

Eggs from brought in organic pullets may be marketed under the demeter trademark if fed and managed according to the standards.

Marketing of the eggs using the Demeter label after feeding and management according to the

standards.

Cockerels for meat or other meat poultry, are to be brought in as “day oldchicks” that means they must have left the breeding house at the latest 3days after birth.The order of rank described in section 5.7 regulates brought in stock. Ifchicks of organic origin are not available, conventional chicks may bebrought in.


Meat cockerels of conventional origin are to be brought in as three days old chicks.

Meat poultry of conventional origin which is fed and managed to thestandards can be marketed as Demeter . The minimum time limits forslaughtering are to met.

(see Appendix 8)

Other meat poultry must be younger than three days when brought in.

Slow growing breeds are to be preferred. Slow growing breeds are to be preferred.


Product for sale

Poultry

Certificationstatus of theanimal whenbrought in

Age whenbrought in

Feed andmanagement

conforming to thestandards

Labelling of thesale products

Eggs Organic pullets 18 Weeksmaximum

The samecertification status

as the feed

Demeter/

In conversion to demeter

Meat cockerels Organic 30 Days Demeter

Meat cockerels Conventional dayold chicks

3 daysmaximum

Hens: 81 days

Cockerels: 150 days

Demeter

Other meat poultry Conventional 3 daysmaximum

From arrival toslaughter Demeter

5.7.6. Bee productsThe production and certification conditions for ”Honey from Demeter beemanagement” and other honey products are regulated in separatelypublished standards.




27

5.8. Medical treatment of animalsThe health of animals is primarily to be assured by observant animalhusbandry, breeding and feeding, choosing of the right breed, as well asthrough the use of prophylactic measures such as managementappropriate to the class of stock. If however health problems occur,treatment to alleviate the condition must be given immediately.

Natural treatment methods are to be used as first preference.

Organic, anthroposophical, homeopathic and other natural remedies andmethods of treatment are to be used in preference. Synthetic chemicalveterinary remedies and antibiotics must be given either by the vet, orfollowing his or her directions. The use of organophosphates as aveterinary remedy (for instance, against myasis on sheep, or against otherexternal animal parasites) is not allowed either as a prophylactic usage oras a treatment for an existing condition.

Animals are not allowed to get more than three courses oftreatment/treatments of allopathic medicines or antibiotic measurements(except vaccination and measurements against ecto-parasites). Animalswith a productive life of less than one year may have only one treatment.If they receive more than one, the animal is to be marketed as

conventional. It is possible to go through a second conversion period.

Routine and prophylactic treatment with materials that are not termednatural remedies (e.g. synthetic allopathic medicines, antibiotics,anthelmintics) is not allowed unless legally required. An exception to this isin those cases where parasitism is endemic in the area in which the farmis located. Anthelmintics may only be given in conjunction with a faecalegg count to prove the presence of parasites, and an appropriate cleanpasture-grazing regime.

Synthetic chemical veterinary remedies,including antibiotics must be given by a vet,or following his direction.Antibiotics may not be

used as a routine or

prophylactic treatment

Anthelmintic usage

only in conjunction with

faecal analysis and a

clean pasture grazing

regime.

The treatment with hormones to synchronise oestrus or to increase thegrowth rate of meat animals is not permitted.Every treatment given to an individual animal, or to the herd as a whole,

no matter what the treatment was, is to be recorded in detail in theappropriate farm records. This record must state, for each treated animal,the treatment, the method, the medicine used, the withholding time andthe date of treatment. These records are to be kept and made availablewhen requested.

The treatment with hormones to synchronise oestrus or

to increase growth rates of meat animals is not permitted.

When using veterinary allopathic remedies, twice the legal withholdingperiod, at least 48 hours if there is no waiting period mentioned, is to beobserved. (Except in the case of a negative bacteria inhibiting testfollowing the use of antibiotics.)

Withholding times to be doubled.

5.9. Transport and slaughter of stock

The slaughtering of animals requires particular care and attention. One must be conscious, that all processing of meat begins with the death of a living being with a soul. Ethical and moral considerations require that the animal is handled all the way from transport to slaughter such that stress, fear, thirst and pain are avoided as far as possible. Transport distances should be kept as short as possible and therefore animals should be slaughtered in the region in which they were reared.

The driving of animals with electric prods is forbidden. Transport distances shall be kept short, ifpossible not more than 200 kilometres.

5.10 Cleaning and disinfecting

Allowable measures are detailed in Appendix 9




28

6. Exclusion of genetically modified organisms andnanotechnology

The use of genetically modified organisms (GMO), or products from them,is not allowed. All products used in certified production have to beproduced without GMOs or products from them. Particular feeds andseeds of conventional origin require a declaration from the supplier

confirming that the product contains no genetic modification (seeappendix 2).Demeter International adopts the precautionary principle in theimplementation of nanotechnology, and therefore excludes it from allusage in Biodynamic agriculture, and from all Demeter certified products.DI will monitor developments in the field of nanotechnology, including thestance of other organic certifiers and review this policy in the light of newinformation that becomes available.

The use of genetically modified organisms or their products are prohibited.

7. Conversion – certification – contract

Conversion is a process of change encompassing the many developmental steps that the enterprise goes through on the way to a new state of equilibrium.

7.1. Conversion and the production manager

Essential agricultural knowledge and skills based on interest in the Biodynamic method, its background and principles, are important prerequisites for successful farming. Membership in a Biodynamic working group is recommended to guarantee the exchange of ideas, communal work assistance and support.

7.2. Conversion of the enterpriseTo convert an enterprise into a Biodynamic one, an individual guiding

template, defining the developmental direction of the enterprise, should bedrawn up. Following this guide a conversion plan can be produced inconjunction with advisors, which contains a description of the fieldsbelonging to the enterprise (size, crops), a detailed picture of the farmorganism, a rotation plan, a fertiliser plan, a picture of the animalhusbandry intentions, as well as measures to minimise the effects ofenvironmental contamination (e.g. from industry, or roads with heavytraffic densities) or spray drift from conventionally farmed neighbouringland.The detailed picture of the enterprise is to contain a description of theconditions of the soils and the most recent usage of materials prohibited inthese standards as well as an exact farm map.

The respective organisation can request tests for residues fromagricultural chemicals, or investigate other exceptional environmentalinfluences.

Description of the

farm organism and the conversion plan.




29

The enterprise is to be converted in its entirety, in one step, to theBiodynamic method. Where it can be justified, certification of the individualareas can follow the crop rotation as long as the whole farm is managedorganically.


The areas that have not yet been certified are to be managed as a fully

separate unit during this period. Parallel production is not allowed.Production of the same crop on areas carrying differing levels ofcertification leads to downgrading to the lower status of the whole crop. Incases where a comprehensive protocol defining separation proceduresexists, the respective organisation can allow the planting of differentvarieties of the same crop in the case of cash crops, cereals and grainlegumes for fodder. Exceptions for perennial crops require approval.


Total conversion of the enterprise;

No parallel production;

Conversion in five years at the most;

Exact documentation is required in all these cases. The entire enterprisemust reach full Demeter certification no longer than five years after thefirst conversion certification. Conversion over a longer period requiresapproval.


One and the same farm manager may not manage a Demeter farm and aconventional farm.

Jurisdiction of the farm manager

7.3. Demeter certification and use of the trademark

“Demeter certification” is granted to an enterprise annually if it has been farmed to these standards,and that has been confirmed by the relevant approved organic inspection body as well as the“Demeter-inspectors” and the certification committee of the respective organisation (in consultationwith the Demeter-International). The enterprise then has the right to label all its produce with theDemeter trademark (“In conversion to Demeter” or “Biodyn” and “Demeter”) according to itscertification status.The farm manager applies annually to be recertified. An annual farm inspection comprising of a fullorganic inspection as well as a full Demeter inspection is a pre-condition for continuing certification.The Demeter inspection shall be carried out by an inspector approved by the respective organisation.Part of the certification is the filing of a farm report. A certification committee or certification officergrants certification. A stock management diary is to be kept which records all animal movements ontoor off the farm, what fodder is brought in, and what veterinary remedies are used. Representatives ofthe respective organisation must be part of the initial certification. The forms to be completed will besent out automatically. Any intended management changes, or other measures, which could have asubstantial influence on the farm as a whole, must be discussed with the representatives of therespective organisation. Records of all the agricultural produce sold (type, amount, buyer, or if it is toend consumers - daily sale volumes), must be kept. If written confirmation of the farm managementconforming to these standards is not provided after two written requests, the respective organisationmay immediately cancel the contract.

7.3.1. Certification in conversionThe prerequisite for conversion certification is management of the whole enterprise to these standards,as defined in the section “Conversion”. The use of the trademark is then governed by the following timeline:- Marketing of produce from the first conversion year with labelling that implies that it is a product of

organic agriculture e.g. “from organic production” or “from Biodynamic production” or similarwording is not allowed.

- Produce harvested 12 months after the start of conversion, may, if certification has been granted,be marketed as “In conversion to demeter” or “Biodyn”. Crops harvested more than 36 months

(perennial crops), or sown more than 24 months after the start of conversion can be marketed as“demeter” once certification is granted.




30

These time periods may be extended in exceptional cases: If an enterprise, or part of an enterprise hasbeen intensively conventionally farmed, a so called zero year may precede the above listed times.

These time periods may be shortened in exceptional cases:- if an enterprise can be shown to have been managed extensively, products after the first conversion

year can be labelled “In conversion to demeter” or “Biodyn”. After the second conversion year, fullDemeter certification is possible.

- If an enterprise or part thereof is certified organic for a minimum of three years full Demetercertification can be given for the first harvest, provided that all provisions of these standards havebeen implemented.

- Partial conversion and new areas follow the above regulations with the additional requirement fordocumentation.

For animal products, certification corresponds to the certification status of the fodder. See the tables onpage 23ff.

7.3.2. ContractIf the farm manager applies to the respective organisation for certification, and all the conditions are met, the enterprise receives a contract for the use of the trademark, and an additional agreement to take up membership in the regional working group. The application for certification requires written acceptance by a representative of the respective organisation. Only when the contract and the agreement have been signed are the rights to use the trademark given to the applicant for one year.The manager of the enterprise itself must be a member of the respective organisation, which in turn must be a co-operating member of Demeter International. The conversion contract must document,because of the current situation, in particular the origin of cattle.




31

Appendix 1 Calculation of the stocking rate

The manure units determine the stocking rate.One manure unit corresponds to 80 kg N and 70 kg P2O5.

Animal type Livestock Unit/AnimalBreeding bulls 1.2Cows 1.0Cattle over 2 Years old 1.0Cattle 1-2 Years old 0.7Calves 0.3Sheep and goats up to 1 year old 0.02Sheep and goats over 1 year old 0.1Horses under 3 Years old, ponies and smallbreeds

0.7

Horses, 3 years and older 1.1Pigs for meat production (20-50 kg) 0.06Pigs for meat production over 50 kg 0.16Breeding boars 0.3Breeding sows (including piglets to 20 kg) 0.55Breeding sows without piglets 0.3Piglets 0.02Laying hens (without replacement stock) 0.0071Pullets 0.0036Table birds (chickens, Cockerels for meat) 0.0036Ducks for meat 0.005Turkeys for meat 0.0071

Geese for meat 0.0036

For those animals which produce differing amounts of manure because of their breed, adjustments upor down are to be made.The manure units are to be calculated on the average number of animals stocked on the farm duringthe year.




32

Appendix 2 Allowable brought in feeds (only feeds of certified organic

origin may be brought in)

Fodder produced on the farm forms the basis of animal nutrition; complete self-sufficiency is the aim.If, however, fodder must be imported, particular care must be exercised that the choice is appropriateto the production of Demeter quality products. Brought in feeds are to be chosen in the following

priority: 1) fodder from certified Demeter enterprises, 2) from enterprises certified organic which is amember of a certified organic organisation, 3) from enterprises inspected to the EEC reg. 834/2007and 889/2008 (or comparably controlled enterprises) 4) from extensively managed areas includingnature reserves, which must have had no use of synthetic fertilisers or plant protection chemicals.

Up to 50 % DM of the fodder in an average ration may come from areas not yet certified fully, butfarmed biodynamically, and up to 20 % DM from organic areas. Imported Demeter in conversion feedand organic feed may together not exceed 50% DM of the daily intake. The bringing in of feeds ofconventional origin is not allowed. The respective organisation is allowed to approve the import of amaximum of 50% of organic feeds for pigs and poultry, if Demeter feeds are not available. This non-availability has to be substantiated.Imported feeds must be documented and be declared as part of the annual return proving that thestandards have been followed.

a) ruminant diets:- Basic staple feeds like hay, straw, silage, maize and beets- grain, bran, Grain offal- Pulses- Hay made from foliage- Herbs- Molasses- Grassland and arable products not mentioned elsewhere- Fodder mixes containing the above mentioned ingredients- Litter of fruits and vegetable- By-products of processing (products of animals are excluded)

b) pigs :In addition to a) above the following may be used:

- Skim milk powder without additives, and milk products- Plant oils of natural origin(providing there is no concern about residue levels)- Clean vegetable litter

c) poultry:In addition to a) and b) above the following may be used:

- milled dried herbage

- Paprika powder

d) The following brought in conventionally produced basic, staple feeds to meet structural and energy

requirements may be used in cases of need (e.g. unforeseeable occurrences such as naturalcatastrophes, damage due to fire etc.) with approved exemptions from the inspection body and notgenetically modified:

- Staple fodder such as hay, grass silage, as far as possible from enterprises of low productionintensity

- Grain and by-products from grain processing and grain offal’s from milling- Legumes; (no extraction cake)- Oil seeds, oil press – cake, expeller cake - Fodder beet

This procedure under d) is subject to approval as an exemption by the respective organisation(App 24: see appendix 7)




33

Appendix 3 Allowable feed extenders and additives

- Stock salt- Calcified seaweed, feed lime, lime from seashells- Seaweed- Mixtures of minerals and vitamin preparations (= Premix: no individual amino acids, preferably of

natural origin)- Rock flour, Cod-liver oil, carob- Plant oil, bran, brewers yeast, molasses as a carrier in mineral concentrates or as an aid to

reduce dust, or as an aid in pressing (max. 2% of the production ration)- For beekeeping: sugar (refer to the standards defining “Honey from Demeter Bee management”

for the allowable limits).

Premixes must not contain any genetically modified substances, or be produced with the help ofgene technology. Written proof to this effect must be supplied to the inspection body.

The following are allowed as aids in the silage making process:

- Feed grade sugar- Grain meals from grain produced to these standards- Lactic acid promotion agents- Whey- Molasses, salt, wet and dry cuttings




34

Appendix 4 Allowable fertilisers

In principle, the enterprise is to aim for self-sufficiency in its manures and fertilisers. Importation of thebrought in fertilisers listed in 1. to 4. below may only be as demand dictates. The use of brought inmaterials requires particular care with respect to their effects on the quality of Demeter products. TheBiodynamic preparations are to be used if possible. Brought in materials are to be declared in the

annual certification procedure. In some cases the results of a residue test are to be supplied (e.g. forcompost from green material). New fertilisers may be trialed only with the agreement of the DemeterInternational, or other authorised organisation.

1. Commercial fertilisers from farms certified organic.

- Compost- Stable manure, semi liquid manures from animals (even after biogas extraction)- Liquid manures from plants- Organic wastes (harvest residues etc.)- Straw

2. Brought in organic fertilisers

- Manures as far as possible prepared at the place of origin (no liquid or semi liquid manuresof conventional origin).

- Straw and other plant materials.- Processing by-products (fertilisers made from pure horn, hair and feather, fish wastes and

other similar products) as an addition to the farmyard manure- Seaweed products- Fresh wood products: saw dust, bark, and wood wastes (as long as they are not

contaminated with fungicides and insecticides) and wooden ash from untreated wood- Peat without synthetic additives for growing seedlings, in as far as no alternatives are

available;(Seaweed products and peat are to be used sparingly for reasons of resource depletion)

- Fermented molasses*. Bruised castor seeds

3. Brought in supplementary mineral fertilisers

- Rock dusts (composition must be known)- Pulverised clays (e.g. bentonite)- Calcium chloride (CaCl2; against bitter pip in apples) - Seaweed meal and seaweed extracts- Lime fertiliser, slow release types to be used in principle (dolomite, calcium carbonate,

seashells, lime from the iron and steel industry*, calcified seaweed). Fast release: quicklime*for disinfection purpose only

3.1. Only if the results of soil testing prove the need, and after agreement has been reached with therespective organisation may the following materials be used:

- Natural phosphate rock, low in heavy metals

- Ground basic slag- Crude potassium salts, Potassium magnesium sulphate and potassium sulphate (Chloridecontent max 3%) Only from naturally occurring potassium salts

- Magnesium sulphate- Sulphur- Trace elements

4. Miscellaneous

- Water soluble seaweed extracts- Extracts and preparations from plants- Microbial or plant based compost activators

*) In as far as it meets the requirements of Annex I EEC regulation 889/2008 .




35

Appendix 5 Allowable materials and methods for plant care andprotection

The material listed here, especially under 3. and 4., may only be used in cases of proven need, andonly if the Biodynamic measures (e.g. rhythmical use of horn silica for insect control, peppering) can‘tbring the problem under control. Any use on severe calamities requires the agreement of

representatives of the respective organisation. It should be kept in mind that use of some materials(e.g. Microfine sulphur, pyrethrum) could possibly endanger predator insect populations. New materialsand methods may be trialed only with the agreement of the Demeter International Standards Group. Ifcommercial preparations are bought in, care must be taken that they are free from constituentsprohibited in these standards and are not produced by transgenic methods.

1. Biological agents and technologies

- Encouragement and use of natural control agents for plant pests (predator populations ofmites, parasitic wasps etc).

- Sterilised male insects- Insect traps (Coloured boards, sticky traps, attractants).- Pheromones (Sex-attractants; attractants in traps and dispensers)- Mechanical repellents (Mechanical traps, slug and snail fences and such methods)

- Repellents (non synthetic agents to deter and expel pests e.g. oil of thuya)

2. Adhesion aids, materials to promote plant health.

- Preparations that promote plant disease resistance, and inhibit pest and diseases:Plant preparations (Stinging nettle liquid manure, equisetum tea, wormwood tea etc.),propolis, milk and milk products

- Waterglass* (sodium silicate, potassium silicate)

3. Agents for use against fungal attack

- Wettable sulphur and flowers of sulphur- Waterglass* (sodium silicate, potassium silicate)- Potassium bicarbonate*

4. Agents for pest control

- Virus, fungal and bacterial preparations (e.g. Bacillus thuringiensis, Granulose virus)- Pyrethrum extracts, and powder, but not for mushroom production (no synthetic pyrethroids).

The use as protection in storage is allowed only if no chemical synergists are included in theformulation. The same regulation applies in agricultural production if materials with equallyeffective natural synergists are available.

- Quassia tea- Oil emulsions (without synthetic chemical insecticides) based on vegetable or mineral oil in

the case of perennial crops- Potassium soaps (Soft soap)- Gelatine

- Fe(III) Orthophosphate (Molluscicide)*- Azadirachtin (Neem)*- Rodenticide (only in baitboxes or similar such that predators are not jeopardised)- Ethyl alcohol*, rock flour*, coffee*

5. Allowable aids on specialised crops, perennial crops and ornamental plants

- Diatomaceous earth*

- Calcium hydroxide- In cases of need, copper may be used such that the amount averaged over 5 years shall not

exceed 3 kg/ha/year, preferably with a maximum of 500g/ha/spray.- Sulphur preparations such as Hepar Sulphuris*, lime sulphur*.

*) In as far as it meets the requirements of Annex II, EEC regulation 889/2008.




36

Appendix 6 Example of progress through the conversion phase

The usual time for areas of land, or crops to be in conversion can be seen in the following diagram. Ifthe land had been previously farmed intensively using conventional methods, conversion may takelonger. In favourable cases the conversion period can be shortened (see section 7.3.1.).

Full certification ⇒

12 Months

12 Months Harvest = demeter Harvest =

12 Months (crops sown 24 monthafter conversion)

demeter

Biodynamicstandards havebeen met

Harvest =

“In conversion todemeter “

or Harvest =

“In conversion todemeter “ (perennial

crops)

(perennial crops)

0 1 2 3 Years

Point of time 0: The clock begins i.e. the last use of materials prohibited in these standards. From thispoint on the enterprise is managed to the requirements of these standards. In the firstyear, counted from the start of the clock, all produce harvested has no certification.

Point of time 1: 12 Months after the clock begins; products harvested from this time on can carry thecertification “In conversion to demeter”

Point of time 2: 24 Months after the clock begins; products sown 24 month after the start of conversioncan be marketed as “demeter ” once certification is granted. Perennial crops harvested

from this time on can carry the certification “In conversion to demeter “.

Point of time 3: 36 Months and longer after the clock begins; Products harvested from perennial cropscan carry the “Demeter“ certification.

Example 1. Grain:Rule of thumb: The third harvest has Demeter certification.

Example 2. Milk:If milk or milk products (e.g. from on-farm processing) are to be marketed with the label “In conversionto demeter “ or "Biodyn", at least 80% of the feed fed to the animals must be certified “In conversion to

demeter “. A maximum of one third of the feed ration fed may come from the first year of conversion.




37

Appendix 7 Approval of exemptions (APP)

APP No. Description Page

1 Bringing in seeds of untreated, conventional origin .......................................... 7,8or propagation material of conventional origin

2 Soil kept free of vegetation ................................................................................ 12

3 New crops and production methods (e.g. new fertilisers, plantprotection and plant care agents) ...................................................................... 13

4 Protection of high value conservation areas and clearing of virginforest .................................................................................................................. 13

5 No animals carried by the enterprise (Animals consumingroughage)........................................................................................................... 16

6 Tying up of livestock .......................................................................................... 17

7 Renovation of buildings taking longer than five years(Stable construction, stable renovation, fully slatted floors)............................... 17

8 Stock has access to pasture.............................................................................. 17

9 Lack of open air runs for cattle .......................................................................... 18

10 Lack of open air runs for fattening pigs.............................................................. 18

11 Dehorning and dehorned stock.......................................................................... 18

12 Lack of access to outside runs for poultry, or water for water birds................... 19

13 Limit on imported organic feeds……. ................................................................ 21

14 Brought in feeds……..................................................................................... 20,22

15 Guest animals……............................................................................................. 23

16 Community Pasture…........................................................................................ 23

17 Conventional feed for poultry ............................................................................. 24

18 Brought in stock …….................................................................................... 25,26

19 Bringing in piglets of conventional origin ........................................................... 27

20 Bringing in meat cockerels of conventional origin.............................................. 28

21 Progressive conversion of farm areas …………................................................ 31

22 The same variety on certified and conventional areas of theenterprise (parallel production): only forperennials…………………….............................................................................. 31

23 Longer conversion time (more than five years)….............................................. 31

24 Bringing in staple fodder…................................................................................. 34

All exemptions are to be approved by the respective organisation.

There are exemptions for single countries with a time limit.




38

Appendix 8 Minimum age at slaughter for poultry

species Minimum age (days)

chickens 81

capons 150

Peking ducks 49

female Muscovy ducks 70

male Muscovy ducks 84

Mallard ducks 92

guineafowl 94

Turkeys and roasting geese 140

Appendix 9 Products authorised for cleaning and disinfection oflivestock buildings and installations (e.g. equipment and utensils)

Potassium and sodium soap

Water and steam

Milk of lime

Lime

Quicklime

Sodium hypochlorite (e.g. as liquid bleach)

Caustic soda

Caustic potash

Hydrogen peroxide

Natural essences of plants

Citric, paracetic acid, formic, lactic, oxalic and acetic acid

Alcohol

Nitric acid (dairy equipment)

Phosphoric acid (dairy equipment)

Cleaning and disinfection products for teats and milking facilities

Sodium carbonate




39

Appendix 10 Biodynamic preparations

Quality assurance for the production of the biodynamic preparations

1. General aspectsThe biodynamic compost and spray preparations (=“preparations”) created out of natural and organic

substances are used in minute doses to enhance soil life, plant growth and quality and animal health.They act as a kind of “bio regulator”, forcing the self regulation of biological systems, e.g. the farm’swhole biological cycle (1).

They are essential to biodynamic agriculture and their use is a recognised requirement of the DemeterStandards.

The production of preparations takes place on the farm. The method of production involves takingcertain plant materials (e.g. camomile flowers, grated oak bark and dandelion flowers), cow manure orquartz meal, placing them in selected animal organ parts and fermenting them in the soil for certainperiod of time, usually half a year. After the preparation has been dug out remaining residues of animalorgans are disposed of according to the current regulatory requirements.

Application rates for the field sprays are 300g/ha (Horn manure) and 5g/ha (Horn silica) and 1-2 cm³

each of the compost preparations per 10 m³ of compost or deep litter manure/slurry.

For full details on the application and use of the biodynamic preparations see (2)(3).

2. Basic principles for making the preparationsThe biodynamic preparations will be produced under the use of natural processes (e. g. winter soil restand summer soil life) at the best in the farm on which they are to be applied. All the materials used formaking the preparations should originate from this farm as far as possible.

Living biological processes are essential during production. The organs used are chosen for the uniqueproperties they possess as a result of their former function within the animal organism. Their function isto concentrate the constructive and formative living forces into the substances of the preparations.

The animal organs used need to be of food quality standard. Disinfectants are deleterious to theprocess.

Produced in this special way, the preparations develop a strong yet subtle power whose effect may becompared to that of homeopathic remedies.

3. The materials required for the production of preparationsThe following materials are used in the production of the biodynamic preparations and the estimatedquantities of organ material required per acre.

Preparation Material Animal Organ Quantity/year

Field SpraysHorn manure Cow manure Cow horn 1 Horn / ha (*1)Horn silica Quartz meal Cow horn 1 Horn / 25 ha

Compost Preparations:Camomile Flowers Intestine (2*) 30 cm / 100 haOak Bark Bark Skull (3*) 1 skull / 300 haDandelion Flowers Peritoneum (4*) 30 x 30 cm / 100 haNot affected by Regulation (EC) 1774/2002:Yarrow Flowers Stag’s bladder (5*) 1 bladder / 250 haStinging nettle whole plant noneValerian Flower extract none

Annotation: (1*): if 5-time used; (2*): Bovine intestine, from BSE free countries (3*): Skull (only

bone) from cows (< 1 year old), pigs or horses; (4*): Bovine peritoneum; (5*): Stag’s Bladder (notoriginated from North America)

4. The origin and treatment of the animal organ material




40

The required animal organ material should be taken from fully certified organic animals originating fromthe farm wherever possible. The origin of other horns used in the production of Horn Manure ispossible too.

Currently bovine intestines can only be used from BSE free countries.

All animal organs (except of stag’s bladder and horns) are material of category 3 qualified for foodaccording to Regulation (EC) 1774/2002.

The organs are used either fresh or dried.

The skull is before filling with oak bark placed in a closed container filled with saw dust and left for aperiod of time during which it is cleaned of any fleshy remains by means of a process of microbialmaceration. After the skull is removed waste material is disposed of in accordance with currentregulatory requirements.

During the production process, the filled organ material is carefully protected from disturbance by wildanimals (through the use of unglazed pots, careful fencing etc.)

After the production of preparations is completed all remaining animal residues are disposed of in therequired way.

5. Record keeping

Careful records are kept of the entire production process so that checks can be made of the following:

- The origin of the organ material (abattoir, type and origin of the animal, quantities)

- Site where preparations are being made (sketch of site)

- Date of insertion in the soil and of its extraction

- Confirmation of the disposal of any remains.

6. ControlRecords will be checked as part of regular Demeter inspection.

7. Risk assessmentThe application of the biodynamic preparations presents no additional risk, because

- the organ material used is of food standard quality (skull, bovine intestine, peritoneum) orpermitted fertiliser (horn),

- Remaining material is removed and disposed of when production is complete,

- Biological stabilisation and the neutralisation of pathogens takes place during the half-yearfermentation period,

- The amounts of prepared substance applied is extremely low (very few grams per acre),

- The compost preparations are applied to the manure and compost and not directly on the plants.

Considering the extremely small quantities used and the natural micro-biological breakdown processesinvolved, the production and application of these preparations is virtually risk free.

Recommended literature:

Raupp, J. & U. J. König (1996): Biodynamic preparations cause opposite yield effects depending uponyield levels. Biol. Agric. & Hort. 13, 175-188

Wistinghausen, C.v., W. Scheibe, H. Heilmann, E.v. Wistinghausen, U.J. König (1997): Anleitung zurAnwendung der biologisch-dynamischen Präparate. Arbeitsheft Nr. 2. Stuttgart, 2. Aufl.

Wistinghausen, C.v., W. Scheibe, E.v. Wistinghausen, U.J. König (1998): Anleitung zur Herstellung derbiologisch-dynamischen Präparate. Arbeitsheft Nr. 1. Stuttgart, 3. Aufl.

The use of the Biodynamic preparations are permitted under article 12 (1) c) of EEC regulation834/2007.



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Postscript

The Demeter Production Standards have been developed by members of the Stan internationalDemeter standards. Advisors as well as the regional working groups for Biodynamic agriculture andevery practising Biodynamic farmer had the possibility to contribute to this development process

through attendance at meetings of the respective organisations.

The Standards become the prerequisite for Demeter certification after adoption by the membersmeeting of Demeter International e.V. and the respective organisation of each country.

The current version of these Standards arose from co-operation between those involved in practicalwork, advisory activity and science. They reflect the state of knowledge at a particular point in time.Therefore, development of the Standards must be a continuing process.

Respective Organisations: Brazil, Germany, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, France, Great Britain, Ireland,Italy, Canada, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Netherlands, Norway, Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, UnitedStates of America.

Suggested additions or changes should be sent to the co-ordinator of the Standards Committee atDemeter International:

The Standards CommitteeDemeter International production standardsAttention: Ian [email protected]

These Standards are valid for all production enterprises - farms, market gardens, and orchards – thathave, or seek, Demeter certification, until they are superseded by the adoption of an amended version.

Driebergen, 11th

November 2000/ 1st

July 2009

For the Board of Demeter International

Thomas Lüthi, President

Demeter Biodynamic Production Standards

Documents

Transcript of Demeter Biodynamic Production Standards